European stability

Former European Commission President José Manuel Barroso has expressed strong confidence in Friedrich Merz, Germany’s likely next Chancellor, describing him as a “resolute and determined” leader poised to prioritise the country’s economic and defence needs.

In a recent interview with Euronews, Barroso lauded Merz’s understanding of Germany’s current challenges and his potential to provide critical leadership, not only to Germany but also to the European continent.

“I think he’s going to make it clear that the priorities for Germany are the economy and defence, which for me is obvious. That’s where the politicians in Germany should focus their attention,” Barroso stated. He went on to highlight Merz’s potential to steer Germany and Europe toward greater unity, particularly at a time when leadership is needed most.

Merz, the leader of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has already outlined three key topics that he aims to address in upcoming coalition negotiations: curbing migration, strengthening the economy and determining Europe’s foreign and security polic

With a specific focus on economic revitalisation, Merz has underscored the importance of safeguarding Germany’s industrial base, a sentiment he hopes will resonate with his coalition partner, the Social Democrats (SPD), led by the incumbent Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

“We have to preserveindustrial jobs in Germany,” Merz emphasised, acknowledging the significant role the sector plays in the country’s economic strength.

In a broader European context, Merz faces the challenge of uniting a continent where many leaders are preoccupied with domestic concerns

Yet, the stakes are high for Merz to bridge the gap and provide leadership at a time when recent shifts in US policy have strained the transatlantic alliance.

His leadership is seen as crucial in filling a leadership vacuum within the European Union, particularly as European nations confront global challenges.

As part of his strategy, Merz has emphasised the importance of European unity, particularly in matters concerning NATO’s future role and defence spending.

The upcoming NATO summit in The Hague, scheduled for late June, looms as a critical moment for Merz and European leaders to come together and make key decisions on transatlantic relations and Europe’s defence commitments.

“We will have a NATO summit in The Hague at the end of June. By then at the latest, it must be clear how the transatlantic relationship will develop. And by then at the latest, it must also be clear what contribution Europe is prepared to make to defence within NATO,” Merz stated.

One of Merz’s more notable pledges is to reduce Europe’s dependence on the United States, an ambition that has garnered praise from Barroso, who described Merz’s stance as “exceptional.”

Despite Merz’s historically pro-American stance – having worked with US companies for a large chunk of his career – he has made it clear that Europe must take a stronger leadership role, especially in light of recent international developments.

“Friedrich Merz has been an ‘Atlanticist,’ he’s a pro-American. In fact, in his professional life, he’s also worked with United States companies,” Barroso explained. “So he has no prejudice against the United States,” Barroso continued. “On the contrary, considering the latest developments, he thinks it’s important to show leadership on the European level, and that is what I think Europe needs now.”

While Merz remains hopeful that the US will continue to view European stability as an integral part of its own interests, he also warned of the unacceptable notion of the US striking deals with Russia without consulting European allies

“It is unacceptable if the Americans strike a deal with Russia over the heads of the Europeans, over the heads of Ukraine,” Merz said, underscoring his commitment to ensuring that Europe has a seat at the table in critical geopolitical discussions.

As Merz prepares for what could be a pivotal role in Germany’s leadership, all eyes will be on his ability to navigate domestic challenges while fostering a united, strong European front on the world stage.